Thinking about moving to Turkey from the UK? One of the biggest questions British expats ask before relocating is: “What is the cost of living in Turkey compared to the UK?”
The good news is that Turkey remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe and Asia, with a significantly lower cost of living than the UK. From housing to dining out, everyday expenses are far cheaper, making Turkey a very attractive option for families, retirees, and digital nomads alike.
If you’re planning your relocation, check out our dedicated guide 👉 Moving to Turkey from UK for everything you need to know about visas, removals, and settling in.
🏡 Housing Costs in Turkey vs UK
Accommodation is one of the biggest savings you’ll notice after relocating.
- Rental Prices:
- A one-bedroom apartment in central Istanbul might cost £300–£500 per month, compared to London where the average is over £2,000.
- Coastal cities like Antalya or Izmir offer even lower rents, with apartments starting from £200 per month.
- Buying Property:
- Expats often find Turkish property prices much more affordable than in the UK. In many regions, modern apartments can be purchased for under £70,000, compared to UK averages well above £250,000.
🛒 Everyday Living Expenses
Daily expenses in Turkey are a fraction of UK costs.
- Groceries: Local produce, fruit, and vegetables are extremely cheap. A weekly shop at a Turkish market often costs less than £20.
- Dining Out: A full meal at a mid-range restaurant is usually around £5–£10 per person, while in the UK the same would easily cost £20–£30.
- Transport: Public transport in Turkish cities is efficient and inexpensive, with bus and metro tickets priced around £0.50–£1.
🏥 Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Turkey is modern and affordable.
- Expat health insurance can start at £40–£80 per month, depending on age and coverage.
- Private hospitals offer high-quality care at a fraction of UK private healthcare prices.
- UK citizens moving to Turkey must have valid health insurance as part of their residence permit application.
💡 Utilities & Internet
- Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) for an average apartment are around £40–£80.
- High-speed internet costs around £10–£15 per month, much cheaper than UK broadband.
🎉 Lifestyle & Entertainment
Living in Turkey also allows for a higher quality of life thanks to lower leisure costs.
- Gym memberships are about £10–£20 per month.
- Cinema tickets are typically £2–£4, compared to UK averages of £10+.
- Weekend trips around Turkey (domestic flights, hotels, dining) are often less than the price of a single London hotel night.
📊 Monthly Budget for Expats in Turkey
Here’s a rough idea of monthly expenses:
- Single person: £500–£800
- Couple: £800–£1,200
- Family of four: £1,500–£2,000
Compared to the UK, where costs can be two to three times higher, it’s easy to see why so many expats are drawn to Turkey.
✈️ Final Thoughts – Why Cost of Living Matters for Your Move
For British expats, relocating to Turkey can offer a lifestyle upgrade at a much lower price. Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or seeking a new adventure, Turkey’s affordability makes it one of the best expat destinations in the world.
Ready to take the next step? Start planning your move with our expert relocation guide 👉 Moving to Turkey from UK.